I’ve seen so many questions about why Olaplex No 3 wasn’t in my original lineup for The Abbey Yung Method & what my thoughts are on the newly reformulated Olaplex No 3 Plus Treatment… so here are my thoughts on all of it!
Having tried both the original Olaplex No.3 and the newly reformulated No.3 Plus Treatment, I can share some valuable insights from my personal experience. The original No.3 was my go-to treatment for strengthening damaged hair thanks to its patented bond-building technology. However, the new No.3 Plus includes a Damage Defense Cationic Complex designed to repair the cuticle for a more comprehensive 360-degree hair repair—from cortex through the cuticle. What I noticed is that the new formula seems to have introduced more conditioning ingredients and slightly reduced the bonding agents. This means it feels softer and more moisturizing immediately after use. For someone with dry or color-treated hair, the added softness and moisture were welcome benefits. I also appreciated that the treatment takes only 3 minutes to work, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule. That said, if your primary concern is ultra-intensive bond repair, the subtle reduction in bonding ingredients might feel like a trade-off. Over several uses, my hair felt healthier, less prone to breakage, and shinier, but it didn’t seem as deeply restorative on over-processed hair as the original did in my experience. It’s worth noting that the new No.3 Plus aims to reduce future damage and strengthen hair from within, which resonates with long-term maintenance goals. For best results, I recommend incorporating the No.3 Plus treatment into your regular hair care routine every 1 to 3 weeks, depending on your hair's condition. Pairing it with Olaplex No.4 Shampoo and No.5 Conditioner enhances the benefits for a full repair regimen. While the price point remains the same, the multi-benefit approach might appeal to users looking for combined repair and conditioning effects. In summary, the reformulated Olaplex No.3 Plus is a solid option if you want a fast and moisturizing treatment with bond-building elements. However, if pure bond repair is your absolute priority, the original formula’s potency may be missed. Trying the new product yourself is the best way to see how it fits your hair care needs, especially since hair types and damage levels can respond differently. Sharing my ongoing experience with this updated treatment helps fellow hair enthusiasts make an informed choice on whether the new Olaplex No.3 Plus is right for them.
